"We appreciate Brandon's contributions to our organization," the statement read. "He excited our fan base and was an important part of several seasons of winning Reds baseball. We wish him well with this opportunity."

Phillips vetoed a trade to the Braves in November with his 10-and-5 rights, but apparently has had a change of heart. He's in the final year of his six-year extension worth $72.5 million signed in 2012 and has $14 million remaining on his contract.

Phillips, 35, slashed .291/.320/.416 with 11 home runs, 64 RBIs and 14 stolen bases in 2016. He's driven in 134 runs with 37 steals over his last two seasons.